Marine killed in Afghanistan blast

A Royal Marine has been killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan

A marine from 40 Commando Royal Marines has been killed in an explosion in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.

The MoD said he was killed on Sunday night in an explosion while on foot patrol near Sangin in northern Helmand.

His family have been told.

Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with sadness I must inform you that a marine from 40 Commando Royal Marines was killed in an explosion near Sangin in northern Helmand.

"He was conducting a foot patrol in order to further develop the understanding of the local area when he was struck by an explosion.

"His bravery and selfless commitment will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed and we will remember him."